Do Trupanion and Healthy Paws cover preventative BOAS surgery?

Generally, pet insurance covers medically necessary treatments, not preventative ones. However, if a vet deems early corrective surgery necessary to prevent imminent health decline, it may be covered. You should always clarify this with the provider.

Is there a waiting period for BOAS coverage with these plans?

Yes. For Trupanion, it would fall under their 30-day illness waiting period. For Healthy Paws, it's a 15-day wait. Your pet must show no symptoms during this time.

Can I switch to Trupanion or Healthy Paws if my dog already has BOAS?

You can switch, but BOAS will be listed as a pre-existing condition and will not be covered by the new policy.

What's the main difference between an annual and per-condition deductible?

An annual deductible resets once a year and applies to all conditions. A per-condition deductible is paid once for each unique illness or injury your pet has during its lifetime.

Does my dog's specific breed affect BOAS coverage?

No. As long as the condition isn't pre-existing, it is considered a hereditary condition and is eligible for coverage under both plans, regardless if you have a French Bulldog, Pug, or another brachycephalic breed.

Trupanion vs. Healthy Paws: Which is Best for BOAS?

Choosing the right pet insurance for a flat-faced breed like a French Bulldog or Pug can feel overwhelming. You know the risks, and the biggest one on your mind is likely BOAS. The potential cost of surgery is scary, which makes finding the right policy essential. This leads to the ultimate showdown and a crucial BOAS coverage comparison: Trupanion vs. Healthy Paws. Both are top-tier providers, but their approaches have key differences that could impact your wallet and your peace of mind.

Let’s break down which one might be the better fit for you and your beloved companion.

First, What is BOAS?

BOAS, or Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome, is a set of breathing problems caused by the adorable, shortened heads of breeds like Frenchies, Pugs, and English Bulldogs. As highlighted by the American Kennel Club (AKC), these features can lead to narrowed nostrils and an elongated soft palate, making it difficult for them to breathe freely.

If severe, a vet may recommend corrective surgery to improve their quality of life. This is where insurance becomes a lifesaver.

The #1 Rule for BOAS Coverage

Before we compare the companies, remember this golden rule: BOAS will only be covered if it is NOT a pre-existing condition.

This means you must enroll your pet in a plan before they show any signs or symptoms of the condition. If your vet has already noted heavy breathing, snoring, or other respiratory issues in your dog’s medical record, no insurance company will cover the treatment. The key is to act proactively while your puppy is young and healthy.

“The best time to insure your pet was the day you got them. The second best time is now.”

Trupanion vs. Healthy Paws: A Head-to-Head Comparison

While both companies offer excellent coverage for hereditary conditions like BOAS (when not pre-existing), their plan structures are fundamentally different.

Feature	Trupanion	Healthy Paws
Deductible Type	Per-condition, Lifetime	Annual
How it Works	You pay a deductible once for each new condition. After that, Trupanion pays 90% for that condition for the rest of your pet’s life.	You pay one deductible per year for all conditions combined. Once it’s met, your reimbursement kicks in for the rest of the policy year.
Payout	Often pays the vet directly, so you only pay your portion at checkout.	You pay the vet bill in full and submit a claim for reimbursement.
Waiting Periods	5 days for injuries, 30 days for illnesses.	15 days for injuries and illnesses; 12-month wait for hip dysplasia.

So, Which Plan is Better for Your Dog?

The “better” choice really depends on your financial preferences and what you value most in a plan.

Choose Trupanion if…

You prefer the “set it and forget it” model for chronic conditions. If your dog develops BOAS, you’ll pay your deductible once for that specific issue, and you’re done. All future treatments for their breathing will be covered at 90%. The direct-to-vet pay feature is also a massive plus for many, as it avoids large, upfront out-of-pocket costs.

Choose Healthy Paws if…

You prefer a simpler, annual deductible. If your dog has multiple, unrelated health issues in one year (say, BOAS surgery and a separate broken leg), you only have to meet your deductible once for that year. Based on insights from Forbes Advisor, many pet owners appreciate the predictability of an annual deductible for budgeting purposes.

Conclusion

When it comes to this BOAS coverage comparison, there is no single winner. Both Trupanion and Healthy Paws offer fantastic protection for brachycephalic breeds, provided you enroll early.

Your decision should come down to the deductible structure. Do you want to pay per condition for life (Trupanion) or one deductible per year (Healthy Paws)? Either way, by taking this step, you are giving your best friend the gift of a healthy future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do Trupanion and Healthy Paws cover preventative BOAS surgery?

Generally, pet insurance covers medically necessary treatments, not preventative ones. However, if a vet deems early corrective surgery necessary to prevent imminent health decline, it may be covered. You should always clarify this with the provider.
Is there a waiting period for BOAS coverage with these plans?

Yes. For Trupanion, it would fall under their 30-day illness waiting period. For Healthy Paws, it’s a 15-day wait. Your pet must show no symptoms during this time.
Can I switch to Trupanion or Healthy Paws if my dog already has BOAS?

You can switch, but BOAS will be listed as a pre-existing condition and will not be covered by the new policy.
What’s the main difference between an annual and per-condition deductible?

An annual deductible resets once a year and applies to all conditions. A per-condition deductible is paid once for each unique illness or injury your pet has during its lifetime.
Does my dog’s specific breed affect BOAS coverage?

No. As long as the condition isn’t pre-existing, it is considered a hereditary condition and is eligible for coverage under both plans, regardless if you have a French Bulldog, Pug, or another brachycephalic breed.